What's New
Learn about upcoming classes, workshops, events, and more!
-
Lyme-Old Lyme Junior Women’s Annual Art show returns to LAA
By Jennifer Daly-McFadden
Despite the recent wintry weather, planning for one of Old Lyme’s most popular spring events is already well underway and returning to it’s roots in 2013.
The Lyme-Old Lyme Junior Women’s Club (LOLJWC) will host its 26th annual Expressions Art Show, beginning on April 26th, with some changes that should please both newcomers and veteran attendees. For more than a quarter century, the LOLJWC has supported local charities and organizations with money raised from the annual event.
For the first time in several years, the event will be held at the Lyme Art Association. After successful events at other venues in the area, the time seemed right to return the art show to the LAA. “This is truly an event that incorporates so many elements and resources within our community,” said LOLJWC Co-President Susan Redman-Parodi. “It’s wonderful to be holding the event again at the Lyme Art Association, one of the true art landmarks in Old Lyme.”
Susan Ballek of Lyme Art Association agrees, “Our historic gallery is thrilled to once again be the host site for this special fundraiser. The LOLJWC is a vibrant, energetic organization with a mission of supporting local non-profits. This fundraiser also benefits many talented artists by displaying and selling their work. It’s a win-win for everyone!”
The show will hold its opening night reception on Friday April 26th, featuring entertainment from The Side Doors Band, a live and silent auction, as well as art for purchase from some of the area’s most notable artists. As usual, the event will be a true production of the entire community, from the club’s members who donate time and resources, to the many local businesses who sponsor the event.
But unlike years past, the show will have an extended run—with potential to raise more money than ever. The art will remain on display and available for purchase until June 9th at the LAA.
Additionally that weekend, the Old Lyme Inn will feature a signature cocktail for purchase at the restaurant, with proceeds going to LOLJWC and its beneficiaries.
“It’s great to see so many local vendors and businesses want to be involved in this event,” said Amy Lippincott, LOLJWC Co-President. “It really makes the give back to the community as a whole that much more meaningful.”
Each year, the LOLJWC membership votes to determine the beneficiaries, and this year’s recipients represent a wide range of organizations that offer critical need to shoreline communities. The recipients for 2013 are: The Lyme Art Association,
Child and Family Agency of Southeastern Connecticut, Safe Futures (formerly the Women’s Center of Southeastern CT), The Old Lyme Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library and the Lyme Ambulance Association.
For tickets and more information on the event please go to http://www.loljwc.com.
-
A Contemporary Look, on view at the Lyme Art Association January 11 – February 23, 2013
The Lyme Art Association’s 4th Annual A Contemporary Look exhibition is on display in the Goodman Gallery through February 23, 2013. In past years, this show has featured the work of regional artists who would not normally exhibit their work at the Lyme Art Association. This year the trend continues with paintings, drawings and monotypes on view by Elizabeth Enders, Lori Warner, Susan Newbold, and William Rhodes. Each artist comes to the Lyme Art Association with an extensive exhibition background, and the Lyme Art Association is thrilled to showcase their work.
A Contemporary Look is curated each year by the Association’s Executive Director Susan Ballek, who stated, “I truly enjoy assembling artwork for this show, and find it an exciting way to kick-off a new year here at our historic Gallery. It allows the Association to feature work by progressive contemporary artists who work in an abstracted, yet still representational manner, providing a wonderful contrast to the more traditional exhibitions we host throughout the year.”
The most notable artist participating this year is Elizabeth Enders, who paints from her studios in New York, Connecticut and Nova Scotia. Enders’ minimalistic landscapes capture the movement of the weather as it moves across water or land in thoughtful yet easy brushstrokes. About her work, Enders states, “Painting is about filling in the blanks, making something complete. It’s about making sense of things.” “Georgia,” her large oil on linen landscape hanging prominently in the center of the exhibition, incorporates her “mark making” technique, akin to hieroglyphics, and draws the viewer closer into her personal view of world. Among Enders’ many achievements are her major solo exhibitions at the Addison Gallery of American Art in Andover, MA and the Lyman Allyn Art Museum in New London, CT. Enders’ work appears in numerous permanent museum collections, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; the Whitney Museum of American Art, NY; the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, CT; the Brooklyn Museum, NY, the New Britain Museum of American Art, CT.
For the first time in this annual exhibition, work by an artist from outside the United States is included. Australian artist and designer William Rhodes visited the Lyme Art Association in 2009 while in Old Lyme for a close friend’s wedding, and was fascinated by the history of the Lyme Impressionists and architecture of our Charles A. Platt building. Susan Ballek had the opportunity to view his paintings in person on a trip to Australia later that year, and began brainstorming ways to display his work in Old Lyme. Ballek noted that “the majority of his works are very large oil and wax paintings on board, and shipping proved too daunting for a first-time venture. Rhodes agreed to produce a series of smaller, easily shipped pieces this exhibition, allowing the Association to be the first American gallery to showcase his work.”Rhodes’ “On the Beach” series of charcoal and graphite drawings capture the windswept coast of Tasmania with stunning simplicity. It’s not difficult to imagine the salt air gusting around you while viewing this work. Of this work, Rhodes states, “These images are a vehicle for the imagination – the beach can touch our soul. For me it is either side of a storm which is most moving and provoking. The dramatic atmosphere in an isolated place is what inspires me.” A similar series of beach drawings and paintings by William were part of a sold-out solo exhibition at the Handmark Gallery in Evandale, Tasmania last year. The Association hopes to feature more of Rhodes’ work in the future, including his larger paintings.
Another artist compelled to capture the emotion of the natural world through art is Lyme, CT native Lori Warner. Warner often works in series, creating a suite of prints by transforming a representational landscape into an abstract one. About her work, Warner notes, “I focus on the line between the two, by combining recognizable forms within an abstract field of color and gestural marks. These marks often become my own visual language.” “Wetlands,” one of Warner’s monotype and chine-collé pieces featured in this exhibition, was created through a unique printmaking process of layering paper and ink, of which she is a master.Warner’s work has been displayed around the country, including the Slater Museum of Art, CT; the University of Hawaii Printmaking Biennial; and the Soprafina Gallery in Boston, MA. In 2010, an eleven-piece print commission by Warner was acquired by the Yale University Smilow Cancer Center. More of her work can be seen at the Lori Warner Studio / Gallery in Chester, CT.
Connecticut artist Susan Newbold’s vibrant, fluid landscapes of the French countryside are also included in this exhibition. An accomplished painter and printmaker who often combines monoprints with drawing, and painting with other mixed media, Newbold has had the opportunity to create large bodies of work both in the United States and abroad. She has been awarded three fellowships to work in France, and has had additional residencies in New Zealand, Colorado, Vermont, Maine and Virginia. Of her work, Newbold states, “The accidental and intentional qualities of drawing and printmaking in particular are what make them a perfect fit for my study of nature as a metaphor for life.”
Newbold’s oil-based monoprint “Tapestry,” is one of several of her large works featured in the exhibition. It incorporates the qualities of an architectural drawing, a topographical map, and an aerial view all into one massive landscape scene. In addition to constantly creating new work, Newbold teaches classes and workshops throughout New England. Among the topics of her teachings are “illuminated journals,” a graceful combination of text and mixed-media art, bound by hand on fine artist’s paper. Two of these journals are on display as part of the exhibition, and offer a fascinating look into Newbold’s thought process and the inspiration she draws from nature.
The Lyme Art Association is open free to the public, seven days a week. Gallery hours are Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sunday 1 – 5pm. A percentage of all artwork sales benefit our non-profit organization, and help keep our doors open year-round.
-
UPCOMING EVENT!
-
Free Pastel Demonstrations
The CT Pastel Society has scheduled three well-known pastel artists to give free demonstrations on Saturday, August 4th in the main galleries. More information to follow. Come see these artists at work as well as view the Connecticut Pastel Society's Exhibition.
Karen Israel is and award-winning West Hartford artist who currently works primarily in pastels. Her subjects range from cityscapes to countrysides to portraits. She works to "engage the viewer's emotions through light, color and form."
Alain Picard cites Sargent, Degas, and Sorolla among his artistic influences. Artist Magazine named him one of 20 contemporary artists "on the rise."
Janet Cook is on the faculty at the National Academy of Design in NYC, and has had work in the New York Times, and was featured on "Dateline." -
Introducing the Associate Artists Gallery!
The Lyme Art Association is pleased to announce the dedication of exhibition space for our Associate Artist Members to display and sell their small works!
As many of you know, the silver lining of the catastrophic flood in March of 2010 was the mandatory renovation of our historic gallery’s lower level. Hundreds of LAA Members and Friends have contributed to our ongoing Flood Recovery campaign, and step by step, we have been able to move forward with an ambitious restoration and renovation plan. The changes downstairs are dramatic: the once-dreary space has been cleverly converted into a beautiful, well-lit gallery.
While the entire renovation project is not yet complete, the gallery space is ready to host exhibitions. We’ve run several trial shows downstairs, and now have a good idea of the number of works we can fit on the walls. Now it’s time to fill them!
Much like the Elected Artist gallery upstairs, this space is meant to display framed paintings in any medium, no larger 8 x 10” (canvas size.) Because we have so many Associate Artist members, work will be rotated through this venue, giving each Associate an opportunity to display one small work for three months at a time. Sign up for each period will be done on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of 80 artists per exhibition wave. Artists may not submit work to this gallery more than once per calendar year, unless there are advertised openings to repeat artists (i.e. empty wall space due to insufficient sign-ups during an exhibition period.)
Downstairs Gallery Schedule for 2012 / Early 2013:
- 1st Exhibition time period for Associate Artists: March 30 – June 30, 2012. Receiving period for artwork: March 21 – April 11.
- Juried Exhibition of the 2nd Annual Celebrating Lyme’s Beauty: Work from the Lyme Land Conservation Trust Paint Out at Clucas Field: July 7 – August 31, 2012
- Display of work by the 2012 Elected Artist Candidates: September 1 – October 17, 2012
- 2nd Exhibition time period for Associate Artists: November 1, 2012 – February 1, 2013. Receiving period for artwork: October 23 – 30.
To reserve your space in one of the first two Associate Artist Gallery exhibitions, please contact Exhibition Manager Keith Fox at (860) 434-7802 or email keith@lymeartassociation.org
Please note: All regular LAA exhibition rules and guidelines apply to the new Associate Artist gallery, with the exception that in this space, there is no entry fee and works done under tutelage may also be exhibited.
-
2012 Winter Frolic
Saturday, February 4th, 8 pm - midnight
In the tradition of our founding members, the lively Lyme Impressionists, we are once again inviting you to a magical Winter Frolic. This year our historic gallery will transport you to a Tyrolean winter wonderland - a scene straight from the Alps! Please join us for an unforgettable evening of dancing and merriment, featuring the sound of String Theory.
Come Inside to warm up against the chill and enjoy an array of delectable hors d'oeuvres, desserts and drinks, all with a European flair.A stunning selection of paintings by our very own Elected Artists will be available for bid during the evening's Silent Auction.Friends: $75 per person in advance; $95 at the doorPatrons: $250 Includes 2 tickets and a listing on the Charles A. Platt Restoration Fund plaqueSuggested Attire: Après-ski chic
-
2011 Summer Fundraiser - Lavender & Lyme
The Lyme Art Association, at 90 Lyme Street, Old Lyme Connecticut, is holding its 4th Annual Summer Fundraiser, Lavender & Lyme, on Saturday, July 16th from 6:30 - 10pm. A local jazz band, String Theory Duo, will kick-off the evening during cocktails and fabulous French Hors D’oeuvres, donated by Fromage Fine Foods. For dinner, sweet and savory crepes by Perk on Church will be served, followed by delectable desserts donated by Coffee’s Country Market. Guests will dance the night away to the eclectic sound of The Side Doors, and a silent auction of miniature paintings by LAA artists will be held.
Sponsors of this event are: Atlantic Seafood Market, Old Saybrook; Benchmark Wealth Management, Old Lyme; Coffee’s Country Market, Old Lyme; Fromage Fine Foods, Old Saybrook; Hamilton Point Investments, Old Lyme; Perk on Church, Guilford; The Mergy Family; and Bank of England / ENG Lending, Milford.
Executive Director Susan Ballek says “I’m very excited about our upcoming fundraiser, Lavender & Lyme. With a relaxed yet elegant French Country theme, this event will pay tribute to the Impressionist movement which inspired our founding members. Our Honorary Chair is artist and designer Camomile Hixon, who is helping us to create a magical and memorable setting.”
Tickets purchased in advance are $65 per person, Patrons (including 2 tickets) are $250. Individual tickets purchased at the door are $75. All proceeds from this event benefit the Lyme Art Association’s Charles A. Platt Restoration Fund established in 2008 to refurbish the historic building and grounds. Tickets are available at the Lyme Art Association, 90 Lyme Street, Old Lyme or by calling (860) 434-7802.
-
Lecture and Book Signing Saturday May 21st at 5:30 pm
LAA Welcomes author Duane Hampton
-
Fundraiser for Tiffany Farm - January 7, 6-10pm
On Tuesday, September 21, the lower cow barn at Tiffany Farms in Lyme was engulfed by 30-foot flames and destroyed in a devastating fire. This historic barn was over 200 years old and greatly added to the scenic New England charm of our local, family-run dairy farm. Although no animals were injured in the fire, over 1,000 bales of hay meant to feed the herd this winter were lost, along with antique farm equipment and, of course, the barn.
For nearly 100 years, the Tiffany family has generously allowed Lyme Art Association's artists to paint on their property and have never asked for anything in return. Now is the time for the Lyme Art Association to give something back.
A fundraiser will be held in the LAA's galleries to benefit Tiffany Farms. Money raised at this event will help offset the cost of rebuilding the barn as well as feed their animals this winter. Here's how you can help:
Please purchase tickets for the fundraiser. Live music and great food from River Tavern will be part of the event! If you can't make the event you could make a monetary donation. Please make checks payable to Tiffany Farms. Checks may be brought or mailed to the LAA, 90 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT 06371.
-
2011 Holiday Festival of Trees and Music
From November 21 through December 4, Lyme Art Association will again host the Holiday Festival of Trees and Music to benefit the charity Bring Our Music Back. Ring in the holidays with a special visit to to view the exhibit of over 36 decorated Holiday Trees sponsored by community organizations and business throughout the region. Each day will feature emerging youth artists with music, cookies and a wonderful Topiarium Gift Shop of decorative holiday foliage, urns, and specialty jams, jellies, chutneys and gift baskets from Tait Farms of Central Pennsylvania. A silent auction will be held for the trees, and each will be delivered to the highest bidder on December 5th and 6th.
Admission is free for LAA members. For non-members, admission is $5 per person, with children under 5 admitted free.
-
Attention Members!
Members, please email kendall@lymeartassociation.org with your artistic news for the possibility of being included in the quarterly Newsletter. Please send by the end of each month, all submissions will be reviewed by newsletter coordinator.
-
Fall Classes & Workshops Are Currently Online!
Just click on the "Education" tab above.
-
New Book Available: Elected Artists of the Lyme Art Association
$20 (+ tax)
Available at the gallery or by mail ($5 shipping)The Lyme Art Association announces the publication of Elected Artists of the Lyme Art Association. The book features over fifty of the organization's elected artists, with biographies and images of their art.
The book is beautifully hard-bound with a wrap-around image of the Lyme Art Association building designed by architect Charles Platt and the artists.
-
NOTE: We are no longer using our P.O. Box. All mail can be sent to 90 Lyme Street.
-
Upcoming Committee Meetings at the LAA!
Board of Director Meeting:
APEC Meeting:
Development Meeting:
*Please contact Staff at least one week in advance if you want to attend any of these meetings*